The Effect of Using Balls of Different Speeds and Sizes on Developing The Serving Skill of Advanced Table Tennis Players

This study aims to study the effect of balls of different speeds and sizes on the development of serving skills among advanced table tennis players. The researcher adopted an experimental approach by designing two groups (experimental and control) and implementing a special training program using three types of balls (normal, fast, and slow) that differed in weight and size. The sample included (20) advanced youth players, aged between 17 and 19 years,  from Al-Furat Sports Club in Babil Governorate. The training program was implemented over a period of (6) weeks, with three weekly sessions. A special serving test was used to assess serving accuracy, speed, and stability. The results of the statistical analysis showed significant differences in favor of the experimental group in the three variables,  confirming the effectiveness of using various balls in developing technical performance. The study recommends adopting this method within training programs for advanced players to enhance serving skills in a practical manner according to the requirements of the match. It also suggests conducting similar studies on other skills such as receiving or smashing.